A crate is something you should seriously consider making part of you great dane puppy training. Some people think negatively of crates, believing them to be a form of cruel punishment for dogs. This is not true, a proper sized crate that is used for the right training purposes provides your dog with their own personal space; a safe haven that mimics the feeling of a den.

How are crates effective for great dane puppy training? Some ways they are ideal include:

They can help your pooch through the housebreaking process. It teaches him how to control his bladder because he will instinctively not want to soil his den.

He has his own safe place to sleep and rest undisturbed.

It keeps him secure when he is in a car or in another mode of transportation.

It prevents and assists him in overcoming separation anxiety.

He is safe from potential dangers in your home when you cannot watch him.

Below are some tips regarding crates and proper great dane puppy training:

Purchase a crate that will be large enough for an adult dane to comfortably stand up and turn around. Since the cage will be oversized for the pup, block a portion of the space to make it smaller so he doesn’t have too much room. If there is too much space in the crate, he will end up soiling one side and sleeping on the other.

Let the pup become used to the crate. He must be allowed to enter it of his own free will. You want him to think of it in a positive way, not in fear. Do not shove him in and lock the door. Make it inviting by lining it with a soft blanket, some really nice toys and even a treat. When he goes in, praise him but do not shut the door on him the first few times. Let him become familiar with entering and exiting freely so he doesn’t see it as a trap.

Once he is comfortable with it, the next step to this great dane training is to close the door on him for a few minutes. Once it is closed, remain in the room so he can see you but go about your business and don’t pay him any mind. Do not let him out if he cries, wait until he stops. Slowly increase the time you leave him inside and eventually repeat the entire process but leave the area and your home.

With the exception of bedtime, never crate your dog for longer than a few hours (4 hours) at a time.

Teach children and other family members that when the puppy is in his crate he is to be left alone. No one should be allowed in his special space but him.

Never use the crate as a form of punishment. Do not reprimand him and lock him away.

Committing to this type of crating great dane puppy training is very beneficial and is good for both you and your pet.